Do You Believe?

I know that 316 was a huge episode for Lost addicts, but I have to imagine as we dive further into the sci-fi realm that Lost is losing some people. The producers discussed earlier in the season how they used Sawyer to help the audience identify with someone who was just as opposed to time travel as they were. This concept is a large part of the genius in Lost and can be seen throughout the series. 316, however, took it to another level, because the show has been taken to another level of science fiction. When Hawking asked Jack if he believed, it felt more like a question directed at the audience.(and yes I believe) You have one character, Desmond, who is still completely opposed to the Island and all it's mystery. He storms out saying he's done with the Island, just as I'm sure some viewers have said I'm done with Lost and turned over to American Idol. Then you have Jack, who I feel probably represents the majority of the audience, who is on the verge of believing and by the end of the episode he does believe. As I'm sure the producers hope that by end of the episode the audience followed Jack's lead and believed in their story. Then there's the rest of us who have believed all along, who are represented by John Locke and Ben Linus.

They do the same thing with Ben Linus and how we're not sure what side of the fence he's on. On this front, Jack represents the audience that is coming around to Ben. Jack's starting to believe Ben when he says he's only doing what he has to to protect the Island. Then there's John Locke, who once again represents the audience that believed Ben was actually good last season. Finally you have Hugo, who represents the audience that just at the site of Ben makes them fling Hot Pockets in terror.

So this brings up the question, do you believe? Are you a Jack or a Desmond or even a John Locke? Does the sci-fi elements of the show turn you off to Lost or are you more excited than ever? Let me know.

Barry Says:
...i am very shaky on my 'belief stance' when it comes to 'lost' these days. i am definitely coming back around from the disdain that i had for some of the recent episodes, but TRUST ME. i didn't switch over to 'american idol.' ;)

Response:
Well Barry, I'm glad to hear that you're still watching, but I'm afraid things will get weirder before the payoff. So I hope the sci-fi elements of the show don't turn you into a Desmond and make you run away from Lost. You just have to be a man of fate and believe that these people know what they're doing.